South End Charlotte: Concrete Patio, Curved Retaining Wall & Paver-Topped Steps

The challenge: uneven ground right off the back doors

This South End lot sloped up from the back of the house, leaving a strip of uneven ground that was hard to use.

The homeowners wanted a level patio right off the back doors, with a clean edge where the yard rises.

How we did it

1. Excavate. We dug out the patio area with a compact track loader.
2. Build the curved wall. A segmental block retaining wall follows the curve of the yard and holds the grade.
3. Base and forms. A compacted base and forms set the patio height and shape.
4. Pour and border. Concrete poured and finished, framed with a charcoal paver border.
5. Steps. Block steps with paver treads connect the patio to the upper yard.

Why mix concrete and pavers?

A concrete field keeps cost down and gives a smooth, easy-to-clean surface, while a paver border adds a finished, custom look and ties into the paver treads on the steps.

The finished patio

The homeowners now have a level patio right off the back doors, a clean curved wall where the yard rises, and steps up to the rest of the lot.

Want to see more? Browse before-and-after photos from all of our jobs in the CLT Pros project gallery.

Questions homeowners ask us

Can you build a patio on a sloped lot?

Yes. A retaining wall holds the grade so the patio can sit level, as on this project.

Should I choose concrete or pavers?

Concrete is usually less per square foot; pavers offer more design options. Combining them, as here, gets you some of both.

How long did this project take?

Three days from excavation to finished patio.

Do you work in South End and the rest of Charlotte?

Yes. We work across Charlotte, from South End and Plaza Midwood to Grier Heights and beyond.

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